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A Rainy, Black-Tie Willow Oaks Country Club Wedding

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Caitlin Wilcox

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Bride and groom sharing an intimate moment during their first look at Willow Oaks Country Club Wedding. The bride smiles as she gently touches the groom’s face.

On a rainy August day in Richmond, Kayla and Maddison embraced every moment of their elegant Willow Oaks Country Club wedding, weather and all. While many couples might have considered moving their ceremony indoors, these two leaned into the unpredictable weather with a calm confidence that felt deeply romantic. Thunder echoed in the distance as they exchanged vows, but the joy and peace between them never wavered.

This wedding was formal and refined, with timeless details, heartfelt emotion, and a gallery filled with softness, sentiment, and a touch of summer drama. As a Richmond wedding photographer, I love when a gallery blends film, digital, and drone—offering a complete story of the day from quiet, candid moments to grand sweeping views. Kayla and Maddison’s wedding was the perfect canvas for all three.

Classic Style at Willow Oaks Country Club

Willow Oaks Country Club remains one of Richmond’s most versatile and scenic wedding venues. Nestled along the James River, its grounds offer beautifully manicured greens, a grand brick clubhouse, and classic Southern charm. Even with moody skies overhead, we found pockets of light throughout the property to capture portraits outdoors—without ever compromising on elegance or comfort.

The ceremony took place outside on the patio just outside the clubhouse. Although light rain persisted throughout the day, the couple remained determined to hold their ceremony outdoors. It was meaningful for them—watching storms together had always been part of their relationship. The thunder rolling behind them as they said “I do” made the moment feel cinematic and unforgettable.

For couples considering a Willow Oaks Country Club wedding, weather doesn’t have to limit the beauty of your day. The property offers plenty of covered outdoor areas and indoor options, including elegant ballroom spaces. To learn more about navigating different weather conditions at this venue, you can read my Willow Oaks Country Club venue guide.

Elegant Wedding Details with a Personal Touch

The wedding palette featured soft sage green, white florals, and neutral textures. Maddison and the groomsmen wore timeless black tuxes, while the bridesmaids wore sage green satin gowns. The look was cohesive, polished, and perfect for a black-tie summer celebration.

One of the most emotional moments of the day took place during the couple’s first look. Maddison surprised Kayla by singing and playing their first dance song on the guitar—a gesture that brought one of the most touching sequences I’ve ever had the honor to photograph. They also chose to exchange their vows privately before the ceremony. Even though they shared them again in front of their guests, the quiet moment beforehand gave them space to focus on one another’s words without distraction. I always love when couples take the time for something so meaningful.

From their rose petal toss as they recessed down the aisle to their confetti exit after the reception, the celebration was full of joy and energy. Their dessert choice—a cheesecake instead of a traditional wedding cake—felt fresh and fun, especially when paired with a gelato truck that kept guests smiling through the summer heat.

Richmond Wedding – Documented on Film, Drone, and Digital

As with many of my weddings, I photographed this celebration using a blend of 35mm film, drone, and digital formats. Film added a nostalgic softness that paired beautifully with the weather and mood of the day. Drone images captured the full expanse of Willow Oaks Country Club, from its pristine greens to the surrounding landscape, giving the gallery both intimacy and grandeur.

This balance between editorial and documentary is something I strive for in every wedding I photograph. It allows my couples to have both the legacy portraits they’ll frame and the authentic, unscripted images that transport them back to how it all felt.

Considering a Willow Oaks Country Club Wedding?

This venue continues to be one of my favorite Richmond wedding locations for couples who value elegance, tradition, and flexibility. Whether you’re dreaming of an outdoor ceremony by the river, a ballroom reception under crystal chandeliers, or a timeless gallery filled with film and feeling, this space offers a refined canvas for any vision.

You can explore more inspiration by visiting my ballroom wedding venues in Richmond blog or browsing my curated list of country club wedding venues in Richmond VA.

Book a Richmond Wedding Photographer for your Willow Oaks Country Club Wedding

Inquire here if you’re currently searching for a wedding photographer in Richmond who brings a romantic, refined, and story-driven approach to your day.

The scenic golf course at Willow Oaks Country Club, showcasing lush greenery and tall trees in the background.
The bride's elegant wedding dress and veil hanging gracefully on a white hanger, ready for her special day at Willow Oaks Country Club.
Close-up of the delicate details of the bride's veil, capturing the fine texture and subtle shimmer as it rests on the hanger before the wedding ceremony
A pair of sophisticated white bridal shoes with a bow, elegantly styled for the wedding at Willow Oaks Country Club.
A bridesmaid applying lipstick as she prepares for the wedding day, surrounded by white roses and greenery, with a reflection in the mirror.
Bride adjusting her veil in front of a vintage mirror at Willow Oaks Country Club, capturing the delicate details of her wedding day preparation.
Bride adjusting her earrings while standing in front of a vintage mirror at Willow Oaks Country Club, with her veil flowing behind her and a floral arrangement nearby
Mother helping the bride fasten the back of her wedding dress, with soft lighting highlighting the intricate details of the gown at Willow Oaks Country Club.
Bridal party member spraying perfume on her wrist in a soft-lit room at Willow Oaks Country Club, with lush floral arrangements in the background.
Groom in a classic tuxedo with a white rose boutonnière, standing confidently in front of an antique wooden cabinet at Willow Oaks Country Club.
Groom wearing a black tuxedo with a white rose boutonnière, seated on a chair at Willow Oaks Country Club, smiling warmly with a classic vintage vibe.
Groom adjusting his tuxedo jacket in front of an antique wooden cabinet, preparing for his Willow Oaks Country Club wedding, with a thoughtful expression."
Groom adjusting his cufflink on his tuxedo shirt as he prepares for his Willow Oaks Country Club wedding, with a focused expression.
Bride holding her wedding dress and laughing as she walks towards her groom, who stands in the background with a guitar, at Willow Oaks Country Club wedding.
Bride and groom sharing an intimate moment during their first look at Willow Oaks Country Club Wedding. The bride smiles as she gently touches the groom’s face.
Bride smiling as she watches her groom play guitar during their first look at Willow Oaks Country Club Wedding. The groom, dressed in a tuxedo, strums a guitar while seated.
Bride wiping her tears as she listens to her groom play guitar during their first look at Willow Oaks Country Club Wedding. The groom, dressed in a tuxedo, plays the guitar while seated on a bench.
A bride and groom walk hand-in-hand, with the bride's dress flowing gracefully behind her, in the lush outdoor setting of Willow Oaks Country Club. The groom, in a black tuxedo, strums a guitar as the bride glances back at him, smiling. Green trees and colorful flowers surround the couple.
A bride and groom share a tender kiss in the lush gardens of Willow Oaks Country Club. The bride, in her elegant satin wedding gown, holds her bouquet as she wraps her arms around her groom, who is dressed in a classic tuxedo. The scene is framed by vibrant flowers and greenery, adding a romantic touch to this intimate moment.
A newlywed couple walks hand-in-hand across the lush greens of Willow Oaks Country Club. The bride, in her classic satin wedding gown, beams with joy as she gazes at her groom, who is dressed in a sharp black tuxedo. The verdant landscape and soft golf course backdrop enhance the timeless, romantic atmosphere of the moment.
The newlywed couple shares a tender moment as they embrace on the lush greens of Willow Oaks Country Club. The bride, in her elegant satin wedding gown, lovingly touches her husband’s chest while he gazes at her, a soft smile on his face. The serene backdrop of the golf course and the couple’s intimate connection create a timeless, romantic scene.
The newlyweds hold hands as they walk together across the lush green fairways of Willow Oaks Country Club. The bride, radiant in her classic white wedding gown, smiles up at her groom, whose sharp tuxedo complements the picturesque, peaceful backdrop of trees and rolling hills. Their joyful connection captures the essence of love and celebration in a beautiful outdoor setting.
The newlyweds share a tender moment, wrapped in each other's arms, as they share a kiss on the lush, rolling green hills of Willow Oaks Country Club. The bride’s stunning white gown trails elegantly behind her, and the groom, in his classic tuxedo, gazes lovingly at her. Their romantic moment, set against the serene backdrop of trees and golf course, captures the essence of love and celebration on their wedding day.
The bride joyfully lifts the hem of her elegant white gown, allowing it to flow freely as she smiles and looks toward the ground. Her veil and dress catch the light as she moves gracefully across the lush lawn, capturing the carefree and radiant moments of her wedding day.
The groom, dressed in a classic tuxedo with a white rose boutonnière, walks confidently across the lush green lawn with a relaxed and joyful expression, radiating happiness on his wedding day. The background features rich greenery, adding to the serene outdoor atmosphere.
A close-up of the groom in his tuxedo, capturing the elegance of his ensemble, showcasing the crisp black lapels of his suit and the white rose boutonnière pinned to his lapel. His hand holds the front of his jacket as he stands poised and confident in his formal attire.
The bride stands with her back to the camera, adjusting her hair with one hand while holding her elegant white rose and greenery bouquet with the other. Her soft updo is beautifully styled, and her strapless wedding gown flows gracefully around her. In the background, lush green trees frame the serene outdoor scene.
The bride smiles joyfully as she walks across the lush green lawn, holding the flowing skirt of her elegant strapless wedding gown. The backdrop features dense greenery, adding a serene and natural atmosphere to the moment.
The bride and groom exchange rings during their ceremony under a lush floral arch. The bride smiles as the groom places the ring on her finger, while the officiant stands between them, guiding the exchange. The background features rolling hills and greenery, creating a serene and romantic atmosphere.
The bride and groom share a joyful moment during their wedding ceremony, smiling at each other as they stand under a beautiful floral arch. The bride, wearing a strapless white gown and a veil, holds her hands with the groom, who is dressed in a classic black tuxedo. The lush greenery and serene surroundings create a romantic atmosphere as they exchange their vows.
A candid black-and-white moment from the wedding ceremony, as the bride and groom exchange vows. The bride, wearing a strapless white gown and a veil, holds the groom’s hand. The groom, dressed in a classic black tuxedo with a bow tie, gazes at the bride, deeply engaged in the moment. Behind them, a lush floral arch frames the scene, with a few guests standing in the background.
The bride reads her vows to the groom during the ceremony at Willow Oaks Country Club, framed by a lush white floral arch. The groom stands in front, listening intently. In the background, the officiant holds a binder while two attendants stand on either side, observing. The audience is partially visible in the foreground, with a lush green backdrop of trees and a golf course.
The newlyweds walk hand-in-hand down the aisle, smiling and surrounded by falling rose petals. The bride holds a lush bouquet of white roses and greenery, while the groom wears a classic black tuxedo with a white rose boutonniere. Behind them, the guests are standing, and the floral arch frames the backdrop with soft greenery and white flowers.
A close-up shot of the bride and groom, their hands gently touching as the bride's veil billows softly around them. The delicate layers of the veil add a romantic, ethereal element to the intimate moment. The groom wears a black tuxedo, and the bride's strapless gown is highlighted by the flowing veil.
The bride and groom walk hand in hand across a lush golf course, surrounded by green trees. The bride's veil catches the wind as she smiles at her new husband, who looks back at her with a playful, loving gaze. Their elegant attire contrasts with the relaxed, expansive backdrop of the outdoor setting.
The groom lovingly kisses the bride's forehead, their heads gently touching as she smiles. The soft veil cascades over her shoulders, flowing down to her dress. The serene golf course stretches out behind them, adding to the intimate, quiet moment between the newlyweds.
The bride and groom share a joyful moment, holding hands and looking into each other's eyes. The bride's veil gently flows in the breeze as they stand on the lush golf course, surrounded by trees. Their smiles are filled with happiness and love.
Aerial shot of the bride and groom walking hand in hand down a curved path surrounded by lush green grass. The bride's flowing gown contrasts beautifully with the groom’s black tuxedo, creating an elegant, timeless moment.
The bride and groom stand side by side in front of a gelato truck, eagerly awaiting their treat as the server hands over a scoop. The couple is captured from behind, with the bride’s flowing gown and the groom's tuxedo creating a charming contrast against the colorful truck.
The bride and groom share a joyful moment in front of the ice cream truck, both holding cones of gelato. They smile at each other with genuine happiness, showcasing their playful and intimate connection. The colorful truck serves as a fun backdrop to the lighthearted moment.
Wedding guests are lined up in front of the Gelati Celesti truck, eagerly waiting to order ice cream. They are dressed in formal wedding attire, enjoying the sweet treat during the reception, with the lush golf course visible in the background.
Wedding guests, dressed in formal attire, line up at the Gelati Celesti truck to enjoy some ice cream at the reception. The lush golf course and hydrangea bushes create a serene backdrop to the sweet moment.
Aerial view of wedding guests gathered around the Gelati Celesti truck at the reception. Guests in formal attire line up to enjoy ice cream while trees frame the scene, creating a lush, vibrant atmosphere.
The bride and groom share a joyful moment in front of a white rose wall at their reception. The bride holds a fan with a dog’s face on it, while the groom enjoys a drink in his hand. Both are smiling and looking at each other, surrounded by the elegance of their wedding attire.
A close-up of a white rose wall, creating a soft, romantic backdrop with delicate, layered blooms. The texture of the petals adds a luxurious and timeless feel to the scene.
Two hands toast with cocktails against a soft, white rose backdrop, capturing a joyful celebration. One drink is a clear cocktail with a slice of lemon, while the other is a yellow drink, both held with elegance and rings visible on the fingers.
A beautifully set dining room with tables draped in white linens, featuring elegant floral centerpieces in gold stands. The warm, ambient light from chandeliers adds a romantic glow, creating a sophisticated atmosphere for the wedding reception.
A close-up view of a wedding dinner setting with a place card labeled "Graham S." indicating the guest's steak choice. The elegant table is set with a silver charger plate, white napkin, water glasses, and silverware, creating a sophisticated atmosphere for the event.
A close-up of a wedding reception table adorned with elegant white floral arrangements, including roses and hydrangeas, surrounded by glowing candles. The backdrop features large floral installations, creating a romantic and sophisticated atmosphere for the event.
The bride and groom share a tender moment during their first dance at Willow Oaks Country Club, bathed in soft lighting from chandeliers and the DJ booth in the background, highlighting the elegance of the reception space.
The newlyweds share a joyful first dance at Willow Oaks Country Club, surrounded by soft lighting and elegant decor, including a stunning floral arch behind them. The DJ booth is visible in the background as the couple enjoys their moment in the spotlight.
A beautifully set dessert table at Willow Oaks Country Club, featuring a delicious caramel cheesecake, champagne glasses ready for a toast, and elegant floral arrangements adding a touch of romance.
The newlyweds enjoy a toast together at Willow Oaks Country Club, savoring their first moments as a married couple with champagne, while their delicious caramel cheesecake sits on the table.
The bride and groom share a joyful moment dancing at Willow Oaks Country Club, surrounded by friends and family as the celebration continues into the night.
A candid black-and-white shot capturing the energy of the dance floor at Willow Oaks Country Club during the wedding celebration.
The bride dances with friends and family at Willow Oaks Country Club, with hands raised high in celebration during the wedding reception.
The newlyweds dance together during the celebration at Willow Oaks Country Club, surrounded by guests enjoying the lively reception.
The newlyweds share a joyful moment, laughing and dancing together at their reception at Willow Oaks Country Club.
A romantic and joyful moment during the couple's sparkler exit at Willow Oaks Country Club, captured under the night sky with confetti falling around them.

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Meet Virginia
Wedding Photographers

Meet Virginia Wedding Photographers

Caitlin
and Devon

Caitlin and Devon Wilcox, a husband-and-wife photography duo, have captured the stories of over 200 joyful couples across the United States and Europe. Blending old-world artistry with modern techniques, they craft wedding galleries that are as authentic as they are timeless.

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